FutureLakes’ review of Innovative and Integrated Approaches for Lake Restoration
A recent report from the FutureLakes project reviews innovative technical solutions for lake protection and restoration, with a focus on nature-based solutions (NbS), circular blue-economy solutions (CBS), and biodiversity-focused solutions (BfS). A structured review of 208 publications covering 78 types of measures assessed their efficiency, implementation, and potential policy contributions.
While many innovations were based on established techniques, they introduced novel applications—such as reusing nutrients and biomass—to support biodiversity and circular economy goals. Most of the reviewed innovations focused on in-lake measures, particularly Nature-based Solutions (NbS) and hybrid approaches enhancing biodiversity and circular economy benefits. Meanwhile, 40% of innovations addressed catchment-scale measures, emphasizing the prevention of pollutants from entering water cycle via NbS such as peatland and wetland restoration, controlled drainage, and agroforestry. These external solutions align with EU environmental goals and offer multiple co-benefits, including flood resilience and carbon sequestration. Only a fraction of studies addressed integrated catchment-lake approaches, though such combinations yield the most lasting results.
The report underscores that no one-size-fits-all solution exists, and effective restoration must be tailored through lake-specific system analysis. Ultimately, successful lake restoration requires systemic planning, long-term funding, stricter policies, and preventative action to avoid degradation and secure sustainable water quality improvements.